Toronto, ON – September 9, 2024 – The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) is excited to announce Victoria Clarke, Director & CEO of Visit Mississauga, as the recipient of the Tourism Champion of the Year Award for 2024. The award will be presented at the Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence on October 23, 2024, in Hamilton, Ontario. Victoria’s exceptional leadership and dedication to tourism in Mississauga and across Ontario have earned her this honour.
Since joining Visit Mississauga in May 2021, Victoria has significantly impacted the city’s tourism landscape. Her dynamic leadership has strengthened relationships with key stakeholders, including City of Mississauga Staff, Council, the Visit Mississauga Board of Directors, the Greater Toronto Hotel Association and the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, fostering collaboration and open dialogue.
“Victoria Clarke’s expertise and ability to forge strong partnerships have elevated Mississauga’s profile in meetings, sports tourism, and leisure travel,” said Sandra Martin, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at The International Centre. “Her leadership has had a profound impact on the tourism economy.”
Under Victoria’s guidance, Visit Mississauga has hosted notable events, such as the inaugural 2024 Jackalope Mississauga Festival, CSAE (Canadian Society of Association Executives) Summer Summit 2023 and the innovative 2023 Ontario Tourism Summit opening night at The Food District, Square One’s Urban Food Court. “Victoria embodies the spirit of tourism in Ontario with her pioneering ideas and leadership,” said Sam Kohli, Chair of Visit Mississauga.
“Her strategic collaborations and innovative ideas have established Mississauga as a vibrant, thriving destination,” added Stephen Gascoine, Director of Square One Shopping Centre.
Victoria’s contributions extend beyond local initiatives. She has enhanced partnerships with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), boosting regional tourism development. Her active role in industry conferences, Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) Board, and the Canadian Destination Leadership Council (CDLC) highlights her dedication to promoting tourism at all levels. Victoria sits among her global tourism peers on the Foundation Board of Destinations International (DI), as well as she has earned designation as a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), the tourism industry's highest individual educational achievement.
“Victoria exemplifies what it means to be a true Tourism Champion,” said Andrew Siegwart, President and CEO of TIAO. “Her passion and leadership make her a deserving recipient of this award. We celebrate her remarkable contributions to the industry.”
Victoria Clarke’s recognition underscores her relentless efforts to elevate Ontario’s tourism industry and unwavering passion for driving the economic impact of tourism in Mississauga. TIAO congratulates her on this achievement and looks forward to her continued impact on tourism.
About Visit Mississauga:
Visit Mississauga serves as the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for the City of Mississauga. As an industry-led entity, it takes charge of crafting the city’s tourism strategy, spearheading marketing initiatives, and fostering tourism development. Aligned with the goals outlined in the City of Mississauga’s Tourism Master Plan, Visit Mississauga is dedicated to amplifying local businesses, promoting tourism, and drawing in corporate and sporting events to the city. www.visitmississauga.ca
About TIAO:
The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) represents the voice of tourism in the province, advocating for the interests of its diverse industry membership and working with stakeholders to promote growth and create a favorable business environment. www.tiaontario.ca
About the Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala Reception and Dinner:
The Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence celebrate success and recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to Ontario’s tourism industry. The Tourism Champion of the Year Award is presented to an individual who embodies the spirit of tourism in Ontario. Additional Awards will be presented in eighteen categories at the Gala Dinner.
Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Location: Hamilton Convention Centre, Hamilton Ontario
Reception Time: 6:30 p.m.
Dinner Time: 7:15 p.m.
Tickets and Tables: Can be purchased here.
Tourism Awards of Excellence Categories: 2024 Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence
Media Contact:
Simal Gormus
Tourism Industry Association of Ontario